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In an exciting development for Albanian sports, tennis legend Rafa Nadal and the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, have announced the establishment of the Rafa Nadal Sport Center in the coastal city of Durres, located just 30 kilometers from Tirana.

A Vision for the Future

The new Rafa Nadal Sport Center aims to revolutionize sports training in Albania by implementing the renowned methodologies of the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar. This multi-sport complex will feature 12 tennis courts, 6 paddle courts, a multi-purpose sports court, a gym, a wellness area, a swimming pool, and a restaurant zone. Additionally, there will be a store and a museum showcasing some of Nadal's trophies and items donated by other great athletes.

"For us, it is a joy to announce the upcoming construction and opening of a center in Albania. The project is incredible, and we loved the country's vision of promoting sports and its values. I am convinced it will be a success," said Rafa Nadal, expressing his satisfaction with the announcement.

Strategic Location and Synergy

The center will be strategically located next to a new football center by Manchester City, fostering a vibrant sports culture in the region. Edi Rama praised Nadal's human values and sportsmanship, emphasizing the broader impact of the center on youth development in Albania.

"There are many champions and great professionals in the world of sports, but there aren't many champions in life and human values like Rafa. I have always had the impression from a distance that Rafa is a great man, but now, knowing him, I admire his modesty and character even more. I believe the value of this center will not only be in learning to play tennis or other sports but in helping children and young people understand the importance of being both good professionals and good people," remarked Edi Rama.

Expanding the Global Footprint

This announcement marks another significant step in the global expansion of the Rafa Nadal Academy network. With existing centers in Spain (Mallorca) and Kuwait, and tennis centers in Greece, Mexico, and Hong Kong, the addition of the Rafa Nadal Sport Center in Albania will further solidify the academy's commitment to promoting sports and education worldwide. An upcoming tennis program is also set to open in Egypt in September 2024.

The establishment of the Rafa Nadal Sport Center in Albania is more than just a new sports facility; it is a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes in the region. By providing world-class training facilities and fostering the values of sportsmanship and personal growth, this center is poised to make a lasting impact on the Albanian sports landscape.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova